Your guide to Oxford / Music & Entertainment in Oxford
Music and entertainment in Oxford
Known best for it's world-renowned university, Oxford is more than just a scholar's city of culture. Though this beautiful, old city is rich with history and laced with museums to prove it, Oxford is also the home to many events, festivals and arts. Here are several attractions not to miss when you're in Oxford.
Music Events
Everyone likes music, though each person has their own taste in what they like. Thankfully, there is something for everyone in the variety of music festivities offered in Oxford. Here are some of the places and things to do when you are here.
Oxford Music Festival
The Oxford Music Festival is a must for classical music fans since 1974. The concert is comprised of a small selection of prize-winners throughout the festival and features only the best. Though the classes for this festival take place in numerous locations, the concert itself will take place in the auditorium of Wolfson College.
Jericho Tavern
The Jericho Tavern is a famous pub in Oxford, and has hosted numerous rock bands that later hit it big, especially in the '90s. The Jericho Tavern proudly boasts that here is where Radiohead played their first live gig before they were famous. Who knows, maybe you will find the next great rock legends when grabbing some dinner in this reputable tavern.
Sporting Events
Loaded with famous colleges and universities, there are plenty of young people in Oxford looking for something to keep them entertained on their off days. Sports are a great way to help them take the edge off, and Oxford has some sporting events perfect for them and you when visiting the city.
Boat Races
This annual event is a fun and exciting time for university students. Every year since 1856, the rival universities of Oxford and Cambridge come together to race boats and see who will emerge victorious. Regardless of the weather, this race takes place on the agreed upon date in March, following a four-mile course that is the same for both the men's and women's teams.
Oxford Half Marathon
The Oxford Half Marathon takes place every October, a perfect time of year to run the 13.1 mile route after the summer heat. You can enjoy live music and festivities that help to encourage the participants as they race down the streets past world-renowned museums, parks and of course, the universities. Become a participant or come to support the runners and the charities they are there to support.
Food and Drink Events
Just like any other major city, Oxford is not short on good food. The following places are recommended when you're in town.
Eagle and Child Pub
Owned by St. John's College, the Eagle and Child Pub is a modern-day historical site. Bookworms will be excited to visit this establishment, especially upon learning a group known as "The Inklings" were once regulars. This group consisted of the likes of Tolkein and C.S. Lewis. They even discussed the manuscript that was the first draft of "The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe" in this very building.
Oxford Beer & Cider Festival
Every October, you can join the locals at the Oxford Beer & Cider Festival to celebrate a timeless appreciation for beer. At this festival, you can taste local brews and enjoy quality beer with friends and good food.
Cultural Events
When it comes to culture, you have plenty of events in Oxford to to fill your time. Whether it's visiting the university, following a famous inspector's tour, or enjoying the arts, things to do in this area are unlimited.
Inspector Morse Tour
For fans of the popular detective series, the Inspector Morse Tour may be a dream come true. This two-hour walking tour takes you through the streets of Oxford, following the same routes as Inspector Morse, Lewis and Endeavour as they try to solve cases. During this tour, you'll travel the same cobble-stoned alleyways that lead to the pubs where the famous words "Pint, Lewis?" were spoken.
Covered Market
Located in a building the was originally built in 1776, the Covered Market offers a wide variety of goods from retailers and local traders. This is a unique shopping experience that has always been a huge tourist attraction. Located in the center to the city, you can shop from over 50 different traders selling goods such as crafts, food and drink.
University of Oxford
The one thing that Oxford is arguably most famous for, the University of Oxford is a must-see destination while here. Tours are offered to explore and learn more about this magnificent establishment and the 38 other colleges that branch from it. Wander this beautifully designed architectural building while learning about the reasons why it is one of the world-leaders in research.
Turl Street Arts Festival
Every February, the Turl Street Arts Festival takes place, a week-long celebration of performance arts. Hosted by the three Turl Street Colleges of Lincoln, Exeter and Jesus, the majority of these performance arts are put on by those of a professional level. You can enjoy the excitement of 18th century concerts, Greek theater, barely rehearsed poetry readings and rock and jazz gigs.
Cowley Road Carnival
Every year on the first Sunday in July, you can experience the fun of the Cowley Road Carnival. This bright and colorful carnival is a celebration of the diversity that you'll find in Oxford. With a number of activities from sun-up to sun-down, you cannot miss these festivities if you're in Oxford during this special time.
Oxford is a lively city, and though it's full of history, it knows how to celebrate with modern style. Centered mostly around the universities and the students that call it home, the events in Oxford offer something for everyone. Enjoy your stay in this wonderfully diverse city.